Developing the concept of adverse childhood experiences: A global perspective

Abstract

Background: The relationship between health and adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) has been a major topic in the field of healthcare. In recent years, the study ACEs and health has expanded internationally. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to further develop the concept of ACEs using a global perspective. Method: Rodgers' Evolutionary Model guided the study. PubMed, CINAHL, and PsychINFO databases were searched. A total of 39 publications were selected for review. Findings: Development of the concept was achieved using a wide global lens. ACEs are influenced by diverse cultural, social, environmental, and economic factors that affect individuals' health worldwide. Discussion: The developed ACEs concept described in this paper includes a global perspective, adding context to the existing definition, thus broadening its application, and expanding its usefulness in international research. A clear concept for ACEs is valuable to nurses who care for children, adolescents and young adults around the world, who have suffered from ACEs and seek health care.